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Home
Spotlight On
Beautiful Homes
Meet The Team
Behind the Name
Our Showrooms
Visit Jim Lawrence Website
Made By Us
  • Home
  • Spotlight On
  • Beautiful Homes
  • Meet The Team
  • Behind the Name
  • Our Showrooms
  • Visit Jim Lawrence Website
  • Made By Us
Jim Lawrence Blog - Jim Lawrence Blog
Meet The Team

Meet The Jim Lawrence Quality Control Team

Ever wondered how we test the stability of our glass shades, or how hardy our chains are? Have you pondered over how we monitor the perfect paint shade and ensure the trustworthiness of our nuts and bolts? We want you to be confident that your lights, sockets, switches and poles are the best they can be. Just as our products are made by hand, they’re checked by hand too. We caught up with Senior QC Engineer Nick Rogers to find out more about how we test and try our products under the meticulous eyes of our Quality Control team.

Firstly, can you tell us who makes up the team, and how you got into this line of work?

I am the Senior QC Engineer, Mark is Head of Engineering Quality, Lorraine and Shane are our QC Technicians and Harry operates as QC Support to check the glass.

Can you explain what the QC team do at Jim Lawrence?

Well, the overall aim of our job is very simple – to reduce the number of Free of Charge (FOC) items we send out to customer to replace faulty or damaged goods and to reduce the amount of scrap that we produce. If we’re successful, our customers are happy as they have better quality products and the company is happy that we’ve saved thousands of pounds worth of scrap.

There two sides to our QC. One is more of a Quality Assurance role where we come up with strategies to make the company more efficient and cost effective by looking at all the manufacturing procedures we do here to see how they can be monitored to find problems earlier on in the making process. Usually, the earlier you catch them, the easier it is to put right and the quicker we can give everyone the ‘heads up’. This way we prevent mistakes and ensure there is consistency. With a bit of training, everyone becomes their own QC team.

The other side of the job is to test our components and products to make sure they meet the required standards. To do this we work with our suppliers, other Jim Lawrence departments and our customers to get feedback, think of workarounds and solve problems.

 

Talk us through your typical working day.

I honestly don’t think there is such a thing as a typical day, which is one of the things I love about this job. Any plans you have are usually blown out of the water by about 10.30am! In QC you spend a lot of time looking at problems and how you can resolve them. You’re always asking yourself, is there a problem with this? Why? How did it pass QC first time round? What can I do about it? How can I correct it? How can I stop it happening again?

Every morning we have a meeting with our Returns Dept to go through the FOC orders to see why things are being returned and if there is a genuine quality issue that needs looking at. This is often the issue that dictates what we do for the rest of the day. If there is a problem, we may need to remove the product from sale until it is corrected.

Some days we might find that a shipment of components has arrived that we will sample check and find that they don’t meet our standards, so we have to work with the supplier to see if they can be returned or if we can rework them in the workshop. Other days there may be an issue with a piece of machinery that has affected the quality of a product, or a staff absence which has had a random effect. There is always something to keep you on your feet.

What’s the criteria you look at when testing our products?

Everything needs to be checked to make sure it complies UK standards and our own design specifications. First, we use our own judgement to look at products to make sure the finish is right and that it is consistent. Then we use a range of clever measuring devices to sample check products to make sure they have been made to the standard spec. It is up to us to work with the technical team to make sure the specs are up to date and followed by everyone in the company so that we are all working in the same way. The design team will have considered the durability of the product when designing it, so as long as the measurements comply, it’s a good test that it has been made properly.

What happens if products don’t pass QC?

The first thing we do is put them into ‘quarantine’ so they don’t get muddled up with the rest of the stock, while investigations are under way. If it is a component that is wrong, we have to talk to the supplier to resolve the issue and see if we can correct it in-house or send it back. If it is one of our products, we have to consider how many of them are wrong, whether we should send them back to the workshop to be re-worked or whether they will have to be scrapped. We also have to ask ourselves what we can do to stop the same problem happening again. Do we need new or better equipment? More training? Better components? A new design?

When it comes to more fragile items like glass, how do you go about testing a product without deliberately trying to break it? It must be a meticulous task.

Yes, we can’t go around smashing things. We have a special device that uses a magnet to measure the thickness of the neck of the glass, which is important as that is where you unscrew the shade to change the bulb or clean it. We also use Vernier gauges, calipers and micrometres to check other parts of the glass.

A lot of our job roles are hands on here at Jim Lawrence, but it must be really fun to pick apart our products all day. What’s the best part of the role?

I love the fact it is so varied. No two days are the same. I go home every day having learnt something new, so it is constantly challenging. It’s a funny thing, but no matter how much I think I know about our products and the issues that sometime arise, there is always something new! I enjoy working with the engineering and design teams to investigate issues and working out ways we can overcome them and it’s very satisfying when you get good customer feedback having solved a problem for someone.

With all your expertise, what would you say makes our lighting and homeware high quality?

You can see our products have heart and soul, that’s what makes them different from our competitors. They look and feel better because they are handmade. They may not be perfect, but in my book, they are all the better for it. You can see our products have been made with real care and attention. There are not that many places where you can buy something that has been individually hand forged or glass blown. And everyone, not just the makers, but everyone who works here, cares about our products.

 

Can you recommend some tips for customers when it comes to taking care of their items? For example, getting the most use out of a light.

A lot of thought and attention has gone into making sure the raw materials are as robust as possible. I’d say you should treat your Jim Lawrence product like a fine wine. It will work happily for years in your room with gentle handling and a bit of care and attention – like using warm soapy water to keep it in tip top condition. If you are worried handling a light, make sure there is someone there to help you.

Finally, what’s the best part of working for a family business like Jim Lawrence?

I like the fact that everyone is very approachable, unlike more corporate businesses, and that you really get a sense of working together. Jim Lawrence is special because here you are part of a fairly small but very dedicated team of people who incredibly good at their jobs and are passionate about what they do. They are always prepared to go that extra mile to make sure our customers are happy with the products we make.

You can browse all of our hand forged products on our website and enjoy other stylish customer homes on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag us in your own imagery on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook – we love seeing our products in their new homes. 

Working with us means joining an ever-growing family of talented artisan craftsmen and business influencers. Having such a cross section of skills and talents under one roof gives us the chance to offer a fantastically broad range of new challenges throughout our staff, and our exciting career development programmes are tailored to help you grow and make the most of every opportunity within the business.

At the heart of this company we still have a ‘roll your sleeves up and get it done’ mentality that means everyone pitches in and helps no matter what the challenge – there’s no corporate boardrooms here! People tend to stay…we have an amazingly high staff retention rate (averaging 90% annually) which is testament to a genuine belief that our business is only as strong as the links that bind it.

So, if you are looking for an interesting job that challenges and stretches you, in an environment where it’s not unusual to be greeted by a friendly dog (or two) at the door then we are the company for you! We are always keen to hear from new talent, even if your perfect role isn’t currently listed above.

If you would like to apply or request further details on any of the roles, please email us your CV to recruitment@jim-lawrence.co.uk

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Welcome to the Jim Lawrence Style Journal.

We are a British interiors company creating beautiful lighting, ironwork and home furnishings from our Suffolk workshop.

This is where we share ideas that we love, show sneak peeks behind the scenes of our brand and offer a unique insight into classic design.

jimlawrencemade

Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home
Basking in the natural light of our Pimlico Road s Basking in the natural light of our Pimlico Road showroom 💡 

We’re drawn to unique architecture that perfectly showcases our craftsmanship, and with lofty ceilings and expansive glass frontage, our latest showroom is flooded with beautiful light to highlight every detail at its finest.

To visit, find us at 94 Pimlico Road, London, SW1W 8PL. If you want to chat to us in advance about what’s on display, please call us on 01473 826945. 

For easy access, the interior is all on one level and the nearest Tube is Sloane Square. We look forward to welcoming you soon.
At Jim Lawrence, we design and craft almost everyt At Jim Lawrence, we design and craft almost everything you need to make the living room just right. Starting with our range of wall lights, pendants, floor and table lamps, you can go on to browse our extensive collection of fabric shade to finish off the look perfectly.⁠
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By thoughtfully layering ambient, task, and accent lighting, you have a space that can adapt for intimate evenings or larger gatherings.⁠
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Tap this image of our gorgeous Grantham light to shop our edit for the living room.⁠
Perfect for brightening up a seasonal tablescape o Perfect for brightening up a seasonal tablescape or supplementing the glow of the hearth, a hurricane lamp like our Penfold adds further charm to autumnal interiors.⁠
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Tap this image via the link in our bio to find yours in a bronze, matt black, or polished finish.
From rather rustic roots to a refined living space From rather rustic roots to a refined living space, this barn kitchen is the heart of @bijoubarn 's 1800's home renovation. ⁠
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Glass pendants are a timeless choice that complement any space, no matter the size, shape, or colour palette. The Lansdown pendants may be large, but their lightweight look allows the room to breathe, whilst falling in effortlessly with their modern country style. Tap the image via the link in our bio to explore more handblown designs.
Set the tone for relaxed, elegant gatherings with Set the tone for relaxed, elegant gatherings with our collection of linen tablecloths, available in a range of dusky, natural tones that bring understated charm to any dining setting.⁠
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This is our latest addition in waterford green, available as a table runner and set of 2 napkins as well as made to measure curtains and blinds, and a cushion cover should you wish to embrace the full look.⁠
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Crafted from pure linen, this timeless weave is lightweight yet durable, creating a beautiful drape and a natural character that only improves with age.⁠
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Tap the New Arrivals button via the link in our bio to shop.
Just down the road from Jim Lawrence, in the histo Just down the road from Jim Lawrence, in the historic market town of Clare, our artisanal partners at Suffolk Glass are hard at work crafting the beautifully reflective shades that define so many of our lights.

From clear and fluted to opal, ribbed and richly coloured glass, every piece is hand-blown with care, skill and tradition. The workshop has been creating glass for over 50 years, and we were proud to welcome them into the Jim Lawrence family in 2022.

We stopped by to capture a little of the magic behind the scenes ✨ Watch as each shade is brought to life with incredible craftsmanship. To find out more and read our interview with the team, tap this reel via the link in our bio.

To be a glassblower requires both technical know-how and a natural, artistic touch: making expert glassblowers few and far between. We are currently on the lookout for an addition to the team. If this suits you or someone you know, please contact us at recruitment@jim-lawrence.co.uk or call us on 01787 880620 for further details.
Thank you @weareabsoluteuk for sharing this luxury Thank you @weareabsoluteuk for sharing this luxury bathroom space featuring our Putney Flush ceiling light.⁠ The clean lines, natural stone, and warm metallic accents create a perfectly balanced sanctuary, a reminder that even the most functional spaces deserve thoughtful, elevated design.⁠
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Photographed by @johnhersey.studio.⁠
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Tap the link in our bio to explore more designs made specially for a bathroom setting.
Autumn is the time for cooking. Hearty stews, slow Autumn is the time for cooking. Hearty stews, slow-simmered sauces, and all the seasonal dishes that makes these months seem so comforting.⁠
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Keeping the kitchen organised (and beautiful) only enhances this feeling. Available in 0.5m and 1m kits, our utility rails are perfect for keeping pots, pans, and your most-loved utensils within easy reach, while adding a dose of Jim Lawrence charm. Tap this image via the link in our bio to see more.
This stairway has been beautifully executed by @se This stairway has been beautifully executed by @seansymington, showcasing the elegance of our Double Gosford Wall Lights, paired with a pretty @matildagoad shade to gently guide the way.⁠
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We love discussing hallway and stairwell lighting because it's sometimes a challenge to capture the right style for a transitional space. How do you strike a balance between a warm welcome and fond farewell between floors? With a setting like this, you'll want to pause awhile and linger.⁠
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To help you find your perfect lighting match, we've collated our designs most suited for these inbetween pockets of the home. Tap this image via the link in our bio to see more.
Perfect for more compact spaces where a bold silho Perfect for more compact spaces where a bold silhouette is still desired, the Arlington collection offers our original distinctive design, and a range of smaller semi-flush options.⁠
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With their statement central stem and refined simplicity, these pieces remain a year-round bestseller. We love to style them in pairs within living areas, ideally complemented by the matching Arlington wall light.⁠
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The shade featured is Spring Leaf in Indigo, but this fresh, charming fabric brings brightness to the home in any season.⁠
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Tap this image via the link in our bio to explore the full Arlington family.
Exposed timbers and textured brick walls set the s Exposed timbers and textured brick walls set the scene for a cosy retreat in this Surrey Hills cottage, with the silhouette of our bestselling Camberwell floor lamp casting a warm, inviting glow.⁠
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Though we might refer to table and floor lamps as ‘supplemental’, ambient lighting is really essential if you want to add depth, embrace softness, and feel a sense of comfort on darker evenings.⁠
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Thank you @helyer_davies for sharing this image, photographed by @msap_photo.
Tap the 'On The Blog 🏡' button via the link in Tap the 'On The Blog 🏡' button via the link in our bio to explore more of @frampton_court_estate, a magnificent Palladian mansion nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds, surrounded by ornamental gardens and a collection of striking historic buildings.⁠
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A truly exceptional destination for luxury getaways and weddings, we speak with Charlotte Clifford about the rich history and thoughtful restoration of the estate.⁠
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This shot by @paul_whitbread_photo captures our Orla pendant in the Orangery, a uniquely elegant space defined by its octagonal rooms and hexagonal windows.
Now is the perfect time to embrace texture and ric Now is the perfect time to embrace texture and richer tones throughout the home. Switching up your fabric shades is a simple, effective way to add warmth and seasonal character to your lighting.⁠
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Thank you @elevenhillhouse for this beautiful shot of our classic Hanson light, perfectly paired with an empire candle clip shade in Talisker Check Lovat Wool.⁠
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Designed with a neat backplate and adjustable arm, the Hanson is ideal for narrow edges and corners, often used to illuminate shelving and reading spots in living areas. We make this light in several colours to blend or contrast with your home however you see fit.⁠
An ode to early autumn nights 🕯️⁠ ⁠ This An ode to early autumn nights 🕯️⁠
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This season, embrace texture in every corner of your home. Think plush cushions, soft wool throws, warm brass accents, and layers of atmospheric lighting. From the flicker of candlelight to the soft glow of table and floor lamps, a Jim Lawrence addition will make it easy to elevate your space as the nights draw in.⁠
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From left to right, our Hurricane Candle Scone, the Samworth Oil Lamp, the Lambswool Angora Throw in Peacock, and our latest additions to our cushion collection: the Cow Parsley cushion in Hedge Green, and Indigo Blue Killarney Linen.
Nestled on the banks of the River Severn at the ed Nestled on the banks of the River Severn at the edge of the Cotswolds, @frampton_court_estate is a hidden gem of English heritage and elegance. At its heart stands a magnificent Palladian mansion, surrounded by ornamental gardens and a handful of historic buildings, making the estate an exceptional destination for luxury getaways and weddings.⁠
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Guests can choose from exclusive whole-house rentals at Frampton Court, the charming Cyder House, or the beautifully restored Orangery. For weddings, the Grade I listed Wool Barn offers a breathtaking venue which has been lovingly restored and immaculately maintained by owners Rollo and Janie Clifford and their family.⁠
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We were delighted to speak with Charlotte Clifford, who, together with her husband Peter, now oversees the day-to-day running of the estate.⁠
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Tap the On The Blog 🏡 button via the link in our bio to read more. All interior images captured by @paul_whitbread_photo.
Swipe to ward off the chill during cooler months w Swipe to ward off the chill during cooler months with stylish, well-crafted door curtains and poles.⁠
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Our portiere rods are as beloved as our lighting, and for good reason. Slim yet strong, weighty yet seemingly weightless, they embody the balance only achieved through exceptional materials and skilled craftsmanship.⁠
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Tap this image via the link in our bio to find yours.
We’re absolutely in love with our new Pimlico sh We’re absolutely in love with our new Pimlico showroom, and if you’ve already made it to London and stepped through the doors…chances are you might be too💡 

Nestled between Westminster, Belgravia and Chelsea, our new Pimlico showroom sits in the heart of London’s iconic design district, renowned for its interiors, antiques, and craftsmanship.

Pop in to say hello, explore our beautifully crafted lighting and accessories, or pick up our latest brochure to browse at home. If you’re yet to visit, we can’t wait to welcome you.

For opening hours and more details, visit jim-lawrence.co.uk
Whether you order online or visit one of our showr Whether you order online or visit one of our showrooms, we offer complimentary samples of our fabrics for you to take home if you need some more time to decide before you buy.⁠
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With a focus on natural fibres like silk, linen, wool, and pure cotton in a wide range of colours and patterns, there is plenty to choose from. If you'd like to browse our collections in person, find further information on locations and opening times at www.jim-lawrence.co.uk.⁠
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Thank you @charlotte.sje, for capturing this cosy moment - a perfect setting for choosing fabrics and comparing linen textures with beautiful paint swatches.
Our handcrafted shelf brackets are a quiet testame Our handcrafted shelf brackets are a quiet testament to timeless craftsmanship and refined functionality. ⁠
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Visually striking in their simplicity and elegance, the Brookland's come in two sizes and a choice of finishes, bringing varying levels of heritage style to the home.⁠
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The larger sizes were designed and made specially for our new space in London, created in response to a specific brief: to support substantial weight without compromising on looks.⁠
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Tap the images via the link in our bio to shop.
A Jim Lawrence conduit kit offers a clever lightin A Jim Lawrence conduit kit offers a clever lighting solution for indoors and out.⁠
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Transform unsightly wiring into a stylish feature by connecting wall lights, pendants, sockets, and switches when internal wiring isn’t an option.⁠
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Its universal size is designed to work seamlessly with our full range of conduit components and a curated selection of Jim Lawrence lights. Tap these images via the link in our bio to discover all the components you need to create your own kit.
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